Local stars bring life to local movies and they do not always get the recognition they deserve.
Each month a local actor, filmmaker, entertainer, artist and all around awesome person will be featured on our platforms. This week we meet the actress, Claudine de Groot. She received critical acclaim for her role in the movie, Hairareb back in 2019.
We get to know more about who she is when the cameras are rolling and behind the scenes. Claudine’s sparkling personality and humble spirit is inspiring. She has an exciting future and she took time out of her schedule to talk to us and tell her story.
The 32-year-old actress is more than just an actress. She started her career as a model and eventually worked her way into music videos. And after putting in the time, her breakthrough role came with Hairareb. It is a moment that she will never forget. It shaped who she is today.
Who is Claudine de Groot?
I grew up in Rehoboth and finished my school career at Dr. Lemmer Secondary School. I then went to Shadonai Beauty School and got an international diploma in Beauty Therapy. I come from a talented family and I wanted to do more. I started to do modelling and I was featured in advertisements and I also did some product promotions. I decided to do pageantry and was in the top 30 for Miss Namibia 2013. I knew I wanted more and this let me to do music videos where I gained confidence in front of the camera.
How did you get into acting?
I always wanted to be an actress and I used to take part in school and Sunday school plays. I definitely got my acting talent from my late grandmother; I was so happy that I could make her proud before she passed away.
What is your favourite part of being an actress?
Hearing “lights, camera, action”. It brings me into my zone. Meeting my co-actors and learning from them is also very special. At the end of each production it’s like I have new family members. I am extremely happy when I’m on set. It is the best when I connect with the character and get into that character. I love being in front of the camera it makes me feel alive.
How was your time on the Hairareb set?
It was my first ever movie. The day I got selected for the leading role was the best day of my life. I was nervous as I had never done films or theatre before. And I ended up having the best experience. I was blessed to work with a phenomenal cast and crew. I am thankful for everything I got to learn from them. We had one goal and that was to produce a great film. The first two weeks on set was tricky. We were on a farm and the electricity kept failing. We worked with what we had and made the most of it.
What is your dream role?
I would love to do an animated movie. For me a role is a role, as long as I get to connect with the character. It is so amazing to see your character come alive as the production continues. Understanding the character is the key to delivering a great performance.
What do you do to relax?
When I’m not acting, I run my own full-time beauty parlour called Exquisite Beauty. It’s where I can embrace my creativity. I am committed to my other career as a beauty therapist, which is something I love doing. As a creative person it is one of my outlets. I also love cooking and I come up with the most insane dishes I keep canvases around, because I love to paint. I recently started taking sewing classes as well. I have two dogs, Versace and Kenzo and they take up a lot of my free time. I absolutely love my fur babies and I think I might get one more soon.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Stop obsessing over time lines, because God created us all unique and at the end of the day God’s timing is always perfect.
What advice would give young actors?
Always be on the lookout for auditions, go for it and give it your best shot.
Can we expect to see you in something soon?
Absolutely, I worked on a film in November last year and it’s coming out soon. Apart from that I still go for auditions and I’m aiming for the Oscars. I want to represent Namibia. Waving our Namibian flag will truly be a moment of joy and pride.
